BY SHABAN OMAR
Youth in Kwale County have been encouraged to form organized groups to tap into available entrepreneurship opportunities and funding.
Lunga-Lunga Youth CBO Program Coordinator Janice Mbingu said there are numerous government and donor-funded programs targeting youth empowerment, but organized groups stand a better chance of benefiting.
Mbingu noted that recognized and registered groups offer a more structured pathway to socioeconomic development and self-reliance.
βIt is easier for the government and other development partners to support people in a group rather than individuals. With the power of unity and shared vision, comes greater success,β she said.
She urged young people to change their mindset and embrace a collaborative spirit, stressing that working in isolation limits opportunities and growth.
βMost youths have great ideas, but because they lack organization, they miss out on key funding programs like the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Uwezo Fund, and support from NGOs,β Mbingu added.
She challenged local leaders and administrators to prioritize youth empowerment by offering training on group dynamics, proposal writing, and financial management to help young people run sustainable businesses.
Mbingu also emphasized the importance of mentorship and networking among youth groups, saying these connections can open doors to markets, partnerships, and innovation.
The officer advised the youth not to fear taking loans, urging them to embrace risks and develop a strong mindset focused on success.
She noted that fear of debt has held back many young people from pursuing viable business opportunities, despite the availability of various youth-targeted financial support programs.
The officer said that loans, when managed wisely, can be a powerful tool for growth and financial independence.
She spoke during a youth empowerment forum in Lunga-Lunga sub-county. The forum brought over 30 youth.
The event was meant to train youth on financial literacy, how to plan, borrow, invest, and repay responsibly and help them beat poverty and shun from criminal activities.
Mbingu further advised the youth to embrace innovation, identify gaps in their communities, and start businesses that offer solutions to local problems, adding that entrepreneurship is not just about money but about creating impact.
Several youth who attended the forum expressed renewed interest in coming together and taking advantage of the support programs available.
Mustafa Mwaruwa said he has come to learn that young people can achieve great things when they work in groups.
He noted that many opportunities become easier to tap into when youth join hands and work towards a common goal with commitment and focus.
Chedi Mwachuo said he has realized that there are government grants and interest-free loans available, which the youth can take advantage of to transform their lives.
He urged his peers to seek information and make use of such opportunities to start businesses, create jobs, and improve their livelihoods.
Mwachuo further called on the county government to create a database of active youth groups and facilitate regular engagement forums to strengthen the youth sector.
